Amarillo Police Department

08/31/2026

🚨 TRAFFIC ALERT – CANYON DRIVE CLOSED 🚨

Amarillo Police are currently working a serious traffic crash in the 4500 block of Canyon Drive, northbound.

At this time, northbound Canyon Drive and the northbound access road are closed to traffic while our Traffic Investigators work the crash.

We are asking the community to avoid the area and use an alternate route. Please allow our investigators and emergency personnel the space they need to safely work the scene.

We will provide an update with additional information once the crash scene has been cleared.

Thank you for your patience and cooperation.

08/31/2026

DATE: August 31, 2026
CASE NUMBER:
INCIDENT TYPE: Tampering with Government Record
OFFICER SUBMITTING RELEASE: Thomas Hover-Chief of Police; Sgt. Carla Burr-PIO

DETAILS: The Amarillo Police Department (APD) is providing additional information regarding the case involving former APD Officer Christian Eder, whose employment with the department was terminated on July 17, 2026.

APD received a citizen complaint regarding Eder's conduct. An internal investigation determined Eder had improperly used department resources, resulting in his termination for policy violations. Information identified during that investigation was referred to the Potter County Attorney's Office for review and possible criminal prosecution.

The Potter County Attorney's Office has now accepted a criminal complaint charging Eder with Tampering with a Government Record, Texas Penal Code 37.10, Class A Misdemeanor, punishable by a fine up to $4000, jail up to one year, or both.

According to the criminal complaint, it alleges that Eder had searched the FLOCK camera system for the victim’s license plate number 76 times between February 2026 and June 2026. The complaint further alleges an audit of Eder's use of TLOxp showed that Eder searched for the victim’s name two separate times on April 22, 2026. A review of the victim’s involvements with Amarillo Police Department was reviewed and there were no involvements with them related to the reasons Eder input into either the FLOCK or TLOxp records for running their name or license plate. Further, a review of Eder's assignments was conducted, and Eder had no current or former cases or assignments involving the victim or their vehicle.

Flock Safety cameras are automated cameras that capture images of vehicles and license plates as they pass by. They can alert officers when a vehicle associated with a stolen vehicle or other law-enforcement alert is detected and can help investigators develop leads in criminal cases. Flock cameras do not use facial recognition technology.

TLOxp is an investigative tool that helps officers and detectives find and connect information from multiple records and databases. It can help investigators locate people, addresses, phone numbers, vehicles and businesses, and identify connections that may be important to an investigation.

Eder's termination was based on the findings of APD's internal administrative investigation and violations of department policy. The criminal allegations are separate from the administrative investigation and are subject to and will proceed through the judicial process. A criminal charge is an allegation, and Eder is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

Chief Thomas Hover said, “I am deeply frustrated and disappointed by Officer Eder’s decision to use his access to criminal justice information for a personal purpose and then be dishonest in an attempt to conceal his actions. Law enforcement officers are entrusted with access to sensitive information for legitimate criminal justice purposes, and that trust comes with a responsibility that cannot be taken lightly.”

“I have implemented additional safeguards to reduce the likelihood of this happening again. These measures include increased supervisory review of officer searches, expanded auditing capabilities to identify potential misuse, reduced access to software and reduced data-retention periods.

“Integrity and credibility are fundamental to this profession and to the trust our community places in us. Based on the findings of the investigation, I made the decision to terminate Officer Eder and refer the matter to the Potter County Attorney’s Office for consideration of criminal charges.”

APD will not release information that could interfere with the pending criminal case or information that is confidential by law.

08/29/2026

Back to School Safety Reminder!

Now that school is back in session, it’s a good time to talk with your kids about stranger awareness and staying safe when you’re not around.

These quick tips can help start the conversation and give your children the tools they need to make safe choices. Talk with them, practice what they should do, and remind them that if something doesn’t feel right, they should trust their instincts and tell a trusted adult.

A few minutes of conversation can make a big difference! 💙

08/25/2026

Why Do We Need National Night Out?

What happens when neighbors know their neighbors? 🏡👮‍♂️

They look out for each other.

They notice when something doesn't look right.

They check on each other's kids, homes and pets.

And sometimes, simply knowing the people around you can prevent a small disagreement from becoming a bigger conflict.

That's what National Night Out is all about. It's an opportunity for neighbors and police officers to come together, get to know one another and talk about the issues that matter in their neighborhoods.

National Night Out isn't just about one night. It's about building relationships that help make our neighborhoods safer all year long.

Do you know your neighbors? If not, National Night Out is a great place to start! 🚓

Want to host a National Night Out event in your neighborhood? Call 806-378-4257, email [email protected], or submit a Community Event Request online: https://www.amarillopolice.org/community-event-request

08/24/2026

🚲 Welcome back to school, Amarillo! 📚

With more kids biking to and from school, let’s help keep them safe in the busy back-to-school traffic. Here are a few quick bike safety tips to remind your kids before they head out!

Slow down, stay alert, wear a helmet, and watch for traffic. Let’s keep our kids safe all school year long! 💙

08/23/2026

Please join us in congratulating Officer Brennan Perry, who was recently recognized as Officer of the Quarter by the Rotary Club of Amarillo.

Officer Perry was nominated by Sgt. Grazier for his extraordinary response during the tragic Westminster Apartments shooting on May 6, 2026.

As one of the first officers to arrive, Officer Perry immediately began providing lifesaving medical care to a gunshot victim. Throughout the chaotic and rapidly evolving scene, he continued searching for additional victims, locating and treating another critically injured person, coordinating resources, assisting fellow officers, and ensuring victims received the care they needed.

Serving as a Field Training Officer that night, Officer Perry demonstrated exceptional leadership, composure, initiative, and dedication to preserving life. His actions exemplified the very best of law enforcement and his commitment to our community.

We are proud to have Officer Perry represent the Amarillo Police Department. Congratulations, Officer Perry, and thank you for your service! 👏💙

08/21/2026

CIVIL SERVICE TEST DAY IS THIS SATURDAY! 🚨

To all of our applicants — you’ve made it to test day! Come prepared, get a good night’s rest, and give it your best.

Saturday, August 22, 2026 📅
401 S. Buchanan – Heritage Room 📍
Doors open at 8:00 AM 🚪
Testing begins promptly at 9:00 AM ⏰

Remember to dress comfortably — the Physical Readiness Test will take place after lunch.

Good luck, applicants! We’re excited to see you there! 💪⭐

Questions? Call/Text 806-805-4748

08/21/2026

We are excited to collaborate with community partners like Combs and Cuts for such a great opportunity to serve.

A local barbershop has partnered with the Amarillo Police Department to give the community a way to discuss difficult topics in a safe, comfortable environment.

08/19/2026

APD PROMOTIONS & NEW LEADERSHIP

Please join us in congratulating several members of the Amarillo Police Department as they step into new leadership roles!

Haley McGee – Police Business Services Manager

As part of APD’s recent organizational realignment, the department created the position of Police Business Services Manager, a professional staff leadership position serving at the executive level. This position oversees several critical areas of the department, including Records Management, Property and Evidence, Grant Management, and the Police Budget.

Haley McGee brings extensive experience with both the City of Amarillo and the Amarillo Police Department. She has served in Records, Emergency Communications, and most recently as APD’s Accreditation and Compliance Coordinator. Her experience includes supervision, policy compliance, accreditation, audits, budgeting, financial accountability, quality assurance, and organizational operations.

Haley brings institutional knowledge, sound judgment, administrative experience, and proven leadership to APD’s Executive Leadership Team.

Please join us in congratulating Haley McGee on her promotion to Police Business Services Manager!

Erick Bohannon – Assistant Chief of Police

The selection process for APD’s newest Assistant Chief was extensive, spanning approximately three months and challenging candidates through written assignments, strategic planning, a media interview, and multiple interview panels consisting of community members, City of Amarillo department directors, and police chiefs.

Assistant Chief Erick Bohannon brings more than 30 years of law enforcement experience with APD to his new role. Throughout his career, he has served as a patrol officer, detective, sergeant, lieutenant, and captain, with extensive experience in Patrol, Criminal Investigations, SWAT, Narcotics, Homicide Investigations, and critical incident response.

He holds a Master of Science in Criminal Justice, is a TCOLE Master Peace Officer and Certified Instructor, and is a graduate of the Leadership Command College. He also serves as an adjunct criminal justice faculty member at Amarillo College and has remained actively involved in the Amarillo community.

Please join us in congratulating Erick Bohannon on his promotion to Assistant Chief of Police!

Jonathan Crum – Sergeant

Sgt. Jonathan Crum is an 18-year veteran of the Amarillo Police Department and a graduate of the 77th Amarillo Police Academy. During his career, he has served in Patrol, TAC Squad, as a School Resource Officer, Dive Team, and Honor Guard.

Sgt. Crum has been described by his supervisors as a leader with integrity, sound judgment, and a genuine commitment to his officers. Throughout his APD career, he has received numerous commendations and recognitions, including awards for good conduct and a Meritorious Service Citation.

His commitment to service extends beyond our community. Sgt. Crum has also proudly served our country in the U.S. Army and Army National Guard.

Please join us in congratulating Jonathan Crum on his promotion to Sergeant!

Ricky Taylor – Sergeant

Sgt. Ricky Taylor is a 10-year veteran of the Amarillo Police Department and a graduate of the 88th Amarillo Police Academy. During his career, he has served in Patrol, Motors, Dive Team, Honor Guard, and as a Field Training Officer.

Known for his can-do attitude, strong work ethic, and commitment to those he serves, Sgt. Taylor has earned the respect of his peers and supervisors throughout his career. His service has been recognized with the Carver Award, two Meritorious Service Citations, the Fitness Award, Military Service Award, and numerous commendations.

Sgt. Taylor also proudly served our country in the U.S. Army, deploying three times to Iraq as a Military Police Officer. His combination of military and law enforcement experience, leadership, and dedication to service will serve him well in his new role.

Please join us in congratulating Ricky Taylor on his promotion to Sergeant!

Kaleb McCarrell – Sergeant

Sgt. Kaleb McCarrell is a 20-year veteran of the Amarillo Police Department and a graduate of the 75th Amarillo Police Academy. During his career, he has served in Patrol, TAC Squad, and extensively as a K9 Handler.

During his time in the K9 Unit, Sgt. McCarrell worked alongside K9 partners Bruno, Bongo, and Taz. He developed extensive knowledge of canine behavior and training while also mentoring new handlers and helping develop their K9 partners. Sgt. McCarrell and his K9 partners have been responsible for some of APD’s largest narcotics seizures, and his experience and commitment have made a lasting impact on the unit.

Sgt. McCarrell holds a Bachelor of Science degree from West Texas A&M University and a TCOLE Master Peace Officer license. He has received numerous department commendations and citations and has also been recognized by the National Narcotic Detector Dog Association.

Please join us in congratulating Kaleb McCarrell on his promotion to Sergeant!

Congratulations to each of these individuals on this important career milestone. We look forward to the leadership, experience, and dedication they will bring to their new roles as they continue serving the Amarillo Police Department and our community.

08/19/2026

DATE: August 19, 2026
CASE NUMBER:
INCIDENT TYPE:
OFFICER SUBMITTING RELEASE: Thomas Hover-Police Chief; Sgt. Carla Burr-PIO

DETAILS: Recently, a citizen complaint was filed against Officer Christian Eder for inappropriate conduct. Through an internal investigation, it was learned Officer Eder was using department resources inappropriately. Officer Eder has been terminated for policy violations.
Due to improper use of the department resources, a criminal investigation was opened. The case was turned over to the Potter County Attorney’s office with jurisdiction over the offense.
No further information will be released, pending the outcome of the criminal investigation.